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Astros Place Closer Josh Hader on 15-Day Injured List With Shoulder Strain

Retroactive to Aug. 11, his 15-day IL placement prompted roster changes—Shawn Dubin reinstated; Colton Gordon recalled; Héctor Neris designated for assignment—ushering in a matchup-based relief plan.

Aug 8, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Josh Hader (71) delivers a pitch during the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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Bennett Sousa, who picked up the save Monday, figures to be one of the relievers leaned on more with Astros closer Josh Hader on the injured list.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 15: Josh Hader #71 of the Houston Astros walks across the field prior to the MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park on July 15, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Overview

  • Hader’s IL stint marks the first of his nine-year career and follows a season-high 36-pitch, two-inning outing that preceded reported left-shoulder discomfort.
  • Team doctors continue to evaluate Hader’s shoulder with no confirmed timetable for his recovery, creating uncertainty around the late-inning rotation.
  • Manager Joe Espada declined to name a temporary closer, opting instead for a matchup-driven approach that elevates relievers like Bryan Abreu, Bennett Sousa and Enyel De Los Santos.
  • Houston’s decision not to acquire a high-leverage reliever at the July trade deadline has increased reliance on internal bullpen depth during a crucial AL West stretch.
  • The Astros’ relief corps boasts a 3.35 ERA, ranking fourth in MLB, and now faces a test in preserving the club’s slim division lead without its shutdown closer.